The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A marching band leader on Grand Bahama who is battling health problems is the beneficiary of a fund-raising all-star gospel concert on Sunday.

The One Bahamas Committee in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture, St John's Native Baptist Church and the Legends Marching Band are hosting the concert at the Jack Hayward High School Gymnasium at 5pm.

Cecil Thompson, co-chairman of the One Bahamas Committee, said the concert is in aid of Leslie McDonald, the founder and band director of First Baptist Church Boys Brigade Band, St John's Native Baptist Church Marching Band, and the renowned Legends Marching Band.

According to Mr Thompson, Mr McDonald's health had deteriorated in recent months requiring him to undergo several medical procedures.

"He is presently home and is recuperating satisfactorily. It is also important to mention that in spite of the very best medical care and attention Mr McDonald has been given, it is reasonable to expect that he will continue to experience health-related challenges in the foreseeable future," he said.

Mr Thompson said the concert will feature some local and national choirs, internationally-acclaimed gospel groups and marching bands, school choirs, and church choirs.

These include the Grand Bahama Youth Choir, the Royal Bahamas Police Force Choir, Inter-denominational Mass Choir, Jay Mitchell, Zena Robins, Samuel "Scoppy" Rolle, Decision, Pastor Simeon Outten and the Freedom Band, Fabulous Cooling Waters, Bahamas Brass Band, Pioneers Marching Band, and the Legends Marching Band.

Mr Thompson is urging the community to support that event as Mr McDonald has made an extraordinary contribution to The Bahamas over the past 30 years.

He said under the leadership of Mr McDonald, the Legends Marching Band received many rave reviews, accolades and commendations not only locally, but nationally and internationally.

"It is significant to note that within a relatively short period, the Legends Marching Band has become one of our country's most popular, most beloved and most accomplished marching bands," said the veteran educator.